Gaining and Practicing Discretion

I’ve learned so much from years of being in recovery meetings and various literature I’ve read.  Some thoughts in the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous have informed me well about being a person of discretion.

This is something we don’t often see practiced as we live in a culture where people want to “speak about their truth” regardless of the impact on others. 

In the Big Book of AA, we are advised to use discretion in knowing how much time and attention to give to any one situation in relation to others.

We are cautioned to use discretion when making our Step 9 amends to people, and to do so only when it would not further injure them or others.

To show discretion is to know the right thing to do in a situation and to behave in such a way that we don't cause offense.  Quite the challenge. Thankfully, the Bible is very clear about how we can gain wisdom and practice discretion.  Just a few sentences from Proverbs gives us a lot to chew on as we consider using discretion.

For the Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest. 

He is a shield to those who walk with integrity. He guards the paths of the just and protects those who are faithful to him. 

Then you will understand what is right, just, and fair, and you will find the right way to go. For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will fill you with joy. 

Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard you. Proverbs 2:6-11 

Loving God, We know that on our own we are powerless to maintain healthy boundaries, think before we speak, and to know what’s best in complicated situations.  Thank You for Your promise to give us common sense, protect us, and show us the way that is just and fair.

We know we only get wisdom and discretion by improving our conscious contact with You through prayer and meditation, and by practicing Your principles in all our affairs. 

We reaffirm to You today that we want to live with wisdom and discretion today.  When we should be silent, help us to not speak. Where we need to practice healthy boundaries, help us to do so.  Help us to learn the lessons You are providing as we move through what may be complicated circumstances.  Help us to walk in Your ways in each situation we encounter.   Amen

Well let’s live in such a way that discretion can protect us, shall we?  Let’s have a great day.